Jinja: In a remarkable achievement, women from Jinja City who underwent skills training at the Rape Hurts Foundation (RHF) have excelled in the Directorate of Industrial Training (DIT) examinations.
The women, trained in various skills such as tailoring, bakery, hairdressing, and cosmetology, received DIT certification, marking a significant milestone in their journey toward empowerment.
Celebrating the achievement on March 19, 2025, in Mpumudde, Jinja City, Robert Mboizi, Programs Manager at RHF, emphasized the organization’s commitment to empowering women through skills training and legal support.
“We aim to promote respect in households and address poverty, which is a root cause of violence, envy, and witchcraft,”Mboizi said.
The women, jubilant about their achievement, expressed gratitude to RHF for providing them with the opportunity to acquire skills. Juliet Kalembe, one of the beneficiaries, said, “We thank God for enabling us to pass the examination. I thank Rape Hurts Foundation for laying the foundation for our studies.”
Akoth Christine, another graduate, urged fellow women to take advantage of the training opportunities. “Let us earn our own money and not rely on men for everything,” she said.
RHF has not only empowered women through skills training but also addressed social issues such as rumor-mongering and infidelity. Betty Walusansa, a tailoring instructor, encouraged women to take pride in their abilities and believe in themselves.
She noted that her class had over 40 students, with eight passing the DIT phase one with distinctions. “Even though they are mature learners, they grasp concepts well and obtained ‘As’ and ‘Bs,’” she said.
Ms. Hellen Lunkuse, the Executive Director of RHF, emphasized the importance of discipline, education, and hands-on skills in empowering women. “We are here to help you, fight poverty, and stand up for you,” she said.
Last year, at least 50 survivors of SGBV graduated from RHF after completing a one-year skills training program in tailoring, hairdressing, baking, and entrepreneurship. These women and at-risk young girls were empowered to achieve socio-economic independence. RHF offers free education to combat poverty, a major driver of gender-based violence (GBV) in communities.
The success of these women is a testament to the power of education and skills training in transforming lives. It marks a step toward a more equitable society where women can thrive and contribute to their communities.
In addition to training, RHF also donated essential items such as clothes, food, and soap to vulnerable women and children. According to Ms. Lunkuse, these donations were given to survivors and victims of GBV from struggling families.
“We regularly provide these items to support their well-being,” she said.
Katisi Biira, a young mother from Kitovu village who benefited from the donation, shared her heartbreaking story. Despite living with her parents, their situation remains dire as they struggle to make ends meet.
The 18-year-old’s life took a difficult turn after she became pregnant, forcing her to drop out of school in Primary 4. With no support from the child’s father, she faces the responsibilities of motherhood alone.
Her story highlights the struggles of many young mothers in similar circumstances, emphasizing the urgent need for support and resources to help them build better futures.
